Shifting cultivation is considered an extensive form of agriculture. This method involves clearing a piece of land by cutting down and burning the vegetation. The ash from the burned plants provides some nutrients to the soil, which is then used to grow crops for a few years until the soil fertility declines. Once the land is no longer fertile, farmers move to a new area and repeat the process.
Unlike intensive agriculture, which focuses on maximizing output from a small area of land through the use of high inputs like fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation, shifting cultivation relies on the natural fertility of the soil and does not involve significant use of external inputs. This makes it a less intensive and more extensive form of farming.
Shifting cultivation is typically practiced in tropical regions where land is abundant, and population density is low. It is often used by indigenous communities who have a deep understanding of their environment and practice sustainable land management techniques.